Asynchronous online learning: this is what it delivers!

The days when we were only taught at a physical location, and did all our homework on paper, are definitely over. Online learning is becoming “normal” and more and more people are beginning to see the benefits of it. E-learning is very flexible; in terms of location, time and form.

Perhaps you remember from the past that you could take a course at certain educational institutions. You signed up, you then received a thick package of all kinds of teaching materials in the mailbox, you completed the assignments and then returned them by post, after which you received feedback on your assignments from the trainer a few weeks later. That's how you filled month after month.

And... admittedly... it was often just a Spanish lesson and then you were done with it.

This is how many people learn to remember “asynchronously”. Learn at your own time, location, and pace. Very suitable for people who have strong perseverance, discipline and motivation. Less suitable for people who need a little more guidance and coaching.

However, asynchronous learning has also undergone a major development. Of course, learning is no longer done by post ;-) but the way in which the material is presented and how students are involved with the material have also changed revolutionised.

In this blog, we'll discuss when it's a good idea to choose asynchronous learning, what three main challenges exist, how to overcome them, and how to best design asynchronous learning for your student.

‍When do you choose asynchronous learning?

Asynchronous learning is particularly suitable for busy professionals who choose, or are encouraged by the company they work for, to learn something new or brush up on their professional knowledge.

The big advantage is that the time spent learning does not take away from working time and that, for example, no large groups of employees need to be at a training location at the same time, so that, for example, a company's branches must (partially) close.

1. What about motivation?

Fortunately, you no longer have to wait for a training package in the mailbox, but nowadays we mainly use online learning environments, such as Pluvo.

These online learning environments are designed to appeal to the student and are super user-friendly. The student can easily navigate the online learning environment, everything is organised in a clear order and can be easily found.

In addition, online learning environments often offer the option to chat with fellow students or have a discussion.

But how do you ensure that the student actually DOES the course? There are many options for this: for example, use gamification to make learning more fun with competition elements or make it possible to earn stars or awards.

Also clarify the benefit of following the training for the student: what will they gain from their daily life/work practice? Make progress clearly visible, and don't make the modules and lessons too big; then progress will be much more visible!

2. What about the insulation?

Learning alone is boring, isn't it? Maybe it used to be, but it's definitely not anymore! As we mentioned above, even during asynchronous learning, there are many ways to still experience connection. Not only with fellow students, but also with the trainer.

For example, having discussions on the discussion forum, chatting with each other via the online learning environment, collaborating online and much more. With asynchronous learning, you are no longer alone!

3. Waiting for an answer & immediate feedback

Fortunately, it's no longer the case that you have to wait weeks to receive feedback from the trainer. You can now chat or email the trainer. In addition, many online learning platforms (such as Pluvo) also create a library where a lot of information can be stored and found, fellow students can be consulted at any time, and students can connect with each other via social media or, for example, a blog.

In addition, many online learning platforms also offer the option for direct feedback. For example, are you adding a quiz or a multiple choice exam to your e-learning? Then you can set this so that the student receives immediate feedback.

We hope this blog has positively influenced your view of asynchronous learning! Do you also want to get started with setting up your own e-learning? Contact us in the chat!